"We view Mr. Halliday, together with Mr. Dickerson (prior CEO of Varian), as key to the company's success in growing implant share from 30% in 2004 to 70% in 2011, when Applied acquired Varian at a 50%+ premium," the analyst said. "We believe Mr. Halliday’s track record and prior success bodes well for Applied's ability to execute on a more streamlined cost structure and potential share gain in SPE."

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